Farmstay Ginseng & Niacinamide Toner

This toner does two things in one step: it hydrates and it brightens. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) works on uneven skin tone and dullness over time, while ginseng extract supports skin vitality and radiance. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula also preps the skin so that serums and moisturisers applied after penetrate more effectively.

The formula contains niacinamide at 20,000ppm, which equals 2%. This is an effective concentration for daily use — sufficient to gradually improve uneven skin tone and reduce the appearance of dullness without irritating sensitive skin. For more aggressive brightening results, a dedicated serum with 5–10% niacinamide would be used alongside this toner.

Ginseng extract (Panax Ginseng Root Extract) is an antioxidant-rich ingredient used in Korean skincare for its ability to energise tired-looking skin, support collagen synthesis, and improve radiance. In this toner it's listed at 100ppm — a low concentration, meaning it contributes to the overall formulation rather than acting as a primary active. The niacinamide is the primary brightening driver.

Generally yes, with one caveat: the formula contains alcohol (Alcohol Denat.) and fragrance (Parfum), which can irritate reactive or sensitised skin in some people. For most skin types these concentrations are well-tolerated in a rinse-adjacent product like a toner, but if your skin is prone to redness or reactivity, patch test first. The 2% niacinamide concentration is low enough to be non-irritating for the majority of users.

Apply it as the first active step after cleansing — after washing your face and before any serums, essences, or moisturisers. You can apply it with a cotton pad using gentle upward strokes, or pat it in directly with your hands. Patting with hands wastes less product and is gentler on the skin. Follow immediately with your serum or moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp.

Niacinamide at 2% layers well with most actives, including vitamin C — the old concern about niacinamide and vitamin C causing flushing has largely been debunked at standard cosmetic concentrations. With AHA or BHA exfoliants, use on alternating days rather than simultaneously to avoid overloading the skin. This toner is mild enough to use morning and evening as part of a consistent daily routine.

Beyond niacinamide and ginseng, the formula includes glycerin and propylene glycol as humectants for moisture retention, allantoin for soothing, adenosine for anti-ageing support, and a range of botanical extracts including licorice root (Glycyrrhiza Uralensis) for additional brightening, Scutellaria baicalensis for anti-inflammatory support, and Portulaca oleracea for barrier comfort. Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract adds a microbiome-friendly element.

Farmstay (2% Niacinamide): This is formulated for gentle, daily maintenance. It acts more like a hydrating "prep" step rather than an intensive treatment. It is less likely to cause irritation, making it great for those who just want to add brightness without the risks associated with high-percentage actives.